Frank Morrill Murphy (1854-1917) was an American mining and
railroad mogul who was one of the principal owners of the Congress
Gold Mining Company. Like many Americans, Murphy seized the
opportunities opened by Manifest Destiny, leaving his home state of
Arizona at a young age to conquer the West. A shrewd businessman,
Murphy quickly rose to prominence in both industry and politics and
was an influential force which drove the region's profitability and
expansion. He became one of the Southwest's largest bankers and
acquired interests in several gold and copper mines, which proved
particularly profitable during currency panics. Known as the
"Gentleman Capitalist," Murphy was instrumental in combating mining
fraud, acquiring both the Arizona Republican and Arizona
Journal-Milner newspapers to expose ill deeds. Murphy's
financial success allowed him to buy his wife Ethel (1872-1950) a
permanent residence at the Holland House, a few steps from the
Waldorf Astoria in New York City. Ethel, whom he had married in
1892, was a prominent socialite and hostess whose charitable
endeavors included soliciting donations for the construction of the
Carnegie Library and donating a rental property to the Episcopal
Church. The present lot is engraved with Ethel Mary Murphy's
initials.

Condition Report*:
Each lid monogrammed EMM, errant nicking and scratching, few scattered pin dents, one lid flange with light bend, with wear commensurate with age and use.

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Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation,
warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report.
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